A 56-year-old Cuban woman is one of the two females on the island who drive national transport buses. What makes her stand out is that she was the first to undertake this job, traditionally dominated by men.
Idania Perea León, hailing from the province of Artemisa, has 25 years of experience behind the wheel, both in local transportation and now in national buses. "As a woman, of course, you face adverse and difficult situations. This is a job that requires a lot of professionalism and is usually only taken on by men, as there is doubt that we have the capability to do it," she said in an interview published by the official newspaper Granma.
For several years, she was the only woman breaking stereotypes in this profession. However, she mentions that after seven years with the National Bus Company, another woman was recruited, and currently, there are two women doing this job. "People look at you and are astonished, not everyone, but the vast majority praise you when they see you in uniform, and that's very nice, to be admired for what you do," she assured.
Perea León reveals that she has faced difficult situations in her profession, especially in a country marked by machismo. However, she confesses that "when you are a good professional and do it well, you have to be respected and given the place you deserve among your colleagues." "It's a somewhat difficult job, but it can be done. When you have many years of experience, it shows that it is possible," she said.
Talking about her family, the driver mentioned that she has their support. "My parents, who are no longer here, my sister, my husband; everyone has supported me in this work," she confessed. She specifically mentioned that her husband, whom she has been married to for 22 years, met her while she was a driver and "has always supported me."
On March 8th, International Women's Day, Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac described Cuban women as "the nail on which we precariously hang," referring to the economic crisis that has plunged thousands of families into sadness. "She is the support and the flame, the home, the tears, the embrace. She is the shelter and the strength, the only possible peace and the only haven, but she is and will be the spark and the necessary push," he expressed.
Women in the Cuban Transportation Industry
Given the unique challenges and achievements of Idania Perea León, here are some frequently asked questions about women in the Cuban transportation industry and their roles.
How many women currently drive national buses in Cuba?
As of now, there are only two women, including Idania Perea León, who drive national transport buses in Cuba.
What challenges do female bus drivers face in Cuba?
Female bus drivers in Cuba face challenges such as overcoming stereotypes, dealing with machismo, and proving their professionalism in a male-dominated field.
How has Idania Perea León's family supported her career?
Idania Perea León's family, including her late parents, sister, and husband, have been very supportive of her career as a bus driver.